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Can herpes be completely painless: Painless primary herpes – PubMed

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Genital herpes – Better Health Channel

About genital herpes

Genital herpes is a common sexually transmissible infection (STI) caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two forms of HSV – HSV1 and HSV2. HSV1 occurs more commonly around the mouth, but it can also occur on the genitals. HSV2 occurs mainly in and around the genital area.

It is estimated that about one in eight people have HSV 2 and about 80% of those infected may be unaware that they have HSV2. It’s often not possible to tell when a person first acquired the HSV infection as the first symptoms may appear weeks to years later, if at all.

There is no cure for genital herpes, but medication can help manage and reduce the severity of symptoms, and also reduce the frequency of recurrences and reduce the risk of spread.

Many people are anxious about herpes, but it’s important to remember that it only affects the skin for relatively short periods of time, and most people only have a few recurrences.

Pregnant women with genital herpes should discuss this with their antenatal care provider, as herpes infection can be transmitted to the baby during pregnancy and delivery, leading to serious illness.

Genital herpes is spread by skin-to-skin contact

The herpes virus is spread by skin-to-skin contact and can be transmitted during vaginal, oral or anal sex. The infection can occur anywhere on the genitals, in areas around the groin or pubic area, and in or around the anus. Cold sores on the mouth can cause genital infection during oral sex for those who do not already have the cold sore virus.

The virus can be spread when someone with HSV has an ‘episode’ or an outbreak – characterised by having a sore, blister, ulcer or skin split (this is known as viral shedding). It can also be spread between episodes, when there is no sore, blister, ulcer or skin split present – called asymptomatic viral shedding.

During viral shedding the virus is on the skin surface and can be spread through genital skin-to-skin contact, or from the mouth or face to genital skin during contact.

Symptoms of genital herpes

Many people who have genital herpes may not be aware they have the infection, because they may not have any symptoms.

The first episode of herpes can cause considerable pain and distress. Symptoms of the first episode may include:

  • flu-like symptoms – such as feeling unwell, headaches and pains in the back and legs, with or without enlarged glands in the groin
  • small blisters around the genitals – these break open to form shallow, painful ulcers, which scab over and heal after one to two weeks
  • small cracks in the skin with or without an itch or tingling
  • redness or a distinct rash
  • some people also have considerable pain and swelling in the genital area, and hence may have additional pain and difficulty passing urine.

Recurrent episodes of genital herpes

Recurrences are usually less painful and shorter in duration than the first episode of genital herpes. Over time, episodes usually become less frequent and may eventually stop altogether. Infections caused by HSV1 are less likely to recur in the genital area than infections caused by HSV2.

Recurrences may be triggered by:

  • stress
  • menstruation
  • sexual activity
  • general illness
  • low immunity (such as during cancer treatment)
  • no apparent reason noted.

Diagnosis of genital herpes

If you think you have herpes, your doctor will need to take a swab from the affected area to confirm the diagnosis. On rare occasions, your doctor will also do a blood test to help with the diagnosis. Discuss this with your doctor.

Treatment for genital herpes

There is no medication to cure your body of the herpes virus. Treatment is aimed at easing symptoms, reducing the frequency of recurrences and reducing transmission.

Symptoms can be improved by:

  • salt baths
  • ice packs to the affected area
  • pain-relieving medication – such as paracetamol
  • antiviral medication – such as acyclovir, famciclovir and valaciclovir. These can reduce the severity of an episode if taken early enough (preferably as soon as you become aware of any symptoms appearing). Topical antivirals usually used for cold sores on the lips or face are not suitable for use on the genitals.

Preventing recurrences of genital herpes

If you have frequent episodes, antiviral medication may be taken daily to reduce the likelihood of symptoms. You will need a prescription from your GP.

Prevention of genital herpes

The best protection against STIs is to always use barrier protection such as condoms, female condoms and dams (a thin piece of latex placed over the anal or vulvar area during oral sex). Because herpes is spread by skin-to-skin contact, condoms will reduce the risk of transmission, but it will not protect sexual partners completely as condoms do not cover the entire genitals.

Using lubricant with a condom during sex will also reduce the risk of trauma to the genital skin. This has been shown to reduce HSV transmission, especially in the first six months of a sexual relationship. Silicone-based lubricants are recommended.

Remember that herpes transmission can occur when symptoms are present (such as a sore or blister), but may also occur even if there are no genital symptoms through asymptomatic viral shedding.

For people who have frequent episodes of genital herpes, antiviral medication, taken daily, helps to reduce transmission of herpes to a sexual partner.

Pregnancy and genital herpes

Herpes infection may be transmitted to the baby during pregnancy and delivery, leading to serious illness. Although this is not common, let your midwife or obstetrician know if you have ever had a diagnosis of genital herpes, in the past or during your pregnancy.

Support and advice for genital herpes

If you have just found out you have genital herpes, you may feel shocked and may have a lot of questions. It may help you to gather as much information as you can about herpes. This can help you to make fully informed decisions about your treatment, safe sex and preventing further recurrences. Talking to a counsellor about your concerns may also help.

Where to get help

  • Your GP (doctor)
  • Sexual Health Victoria (SHV)External Link. To book an appointment call SHV Melbourne CBD Clinic: (03) 9660 4700 or call SHV Box Hill Clinic: (03) 9257 0100 or (free call): 1800 013 952. These services are youth friendly.
  • Melbourne Sexual Health CentreExternal Link Tel. (03) 9341 6200 or 1800 032 017 or TTY (for the hearing impaired) (03) 9347 8619
  • Thorne Harbour HealthExternal Link (formerly Victorian AIDS Council) Tel. (03) 9865 6700 or 1800 134 840
  • Ballarat Community Health Sexual Health ClinicExternal Link Tel. (03) 5338 4500
  • Bendigo Community Health Sexual Health ClinicExternal Link Tel. (03) 5434 4300 Or (03) 5448 1600
  • Gateway Health Clinic 35External Link, Wodonga Tel. (02) 6022 8888 or 1800657 573
  • Sunraysia Community Health ServicesExternal Link Tel. (03) 5022 5444
  • Barwon Health Sexual Health ClinicExternal Link Tel. (03) 5226 7489
  • 1800MyOptionsExternal Link Tel:1800 696784 is a statewide phone service for information about sexual health as well as contraception and pregnancy options

What Does Herpes Feel Like? Signs and Symptoms

HSV-1 causes oral herpes, leading to cold sores or blisters around the mouth. Genital herpes is caused by either HSV-1 or HSV-2 and produces blisters on the genitals. Not all people show symptoms.

There are two types of herpes: oral and genital. They’re both common, and they’re both caused by viruses.

Symptoms can become apparent right away, or the virus can remain inactive for many years. Your first outbreak can range from mild to severe.

Herpes is contagious. If you have sores around your mouth or genitals, see a healthcare provider immediately to find out if it’s herpes.

Oral herpes

The American Sexual Health Association estimates that roughly half of all adults in the United States have oral herpes.

Oral herpes is usually caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). Not everyone has symptoms, but oral herpes can cause cold sores or blisters around the mouth.

Oral herpes spreads when you come into contact with the virus that can be present in herpes lesions or saliva, or on the surfaces of the mouth. Transmission can happen during close contact, such as kissing or sharing personal items, such as lipstick or eating utensils.

Oral herpes is likely to occur early in life. It can be transmitted to the genitals during oral sex.

Genital herpes

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by HSV-1 or HSV-2. It can be transmitted to the mouth through oral sex.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that among people ages 14 to 49 years old, more than 1 out of every 6 have genital herpes.

According to the Mayo Clinic, it’s easier for genital herpes to be transmitted from a male to a female, so females have a slightly higher risk of developing the infection.

Herpes symptoms can be so mild that you don’t realize you have it. That’s one of the reasons it’s so easy to transmit the virus to others.

Herpes simplex 2 (HSV-2)

The most obvious signs of genital herpes caused by HSV-2 are groups of blisters (lesions).

They can show up on the vulva and penis, and around the anus or inside of your thighs. You can also have blisters on the vagina, cervix, or testicles.

The blisters can break and turn into sores that cause:

  • itchiness
  • genital pain
  • painful urination, especially if urine touches the sores
  • trouble urinating if the urethra becomes blocked

The infection isn’t always that severe, though. Instead of blisters, you might have what appear to be pimples, small insect bites, or even an ingrown hair.

If you’re female, you might have some vaginal discharge that feels a lot like a yeast infection. If you’re male, it might feel like a case of jock itch.

During your first outbreak, you could also feel like you’re coming down with the flu, with symptoms like:

  • swollen glands in your throat, under your arms, or near the groin
  • headache
  • general achiness
  • tiredness
  • fever
  • chills

Herpes simplex 1 (HSV-1)

If you have HSV-1, you might not have any symptoms at all. If you do, it’s likely to include cold sores around your mouth and lips. It’s less common, but you can also develop sores inside your mouth.

The sores may tingle, sting, or burn. In some cases, sores in or around the mouth can become painful when you eat or drink. They generally clear up after a few weeks.

Like HSV-2, you may experience flu-like symptoms during an initial outbreak of HSV-1. Outbreaks can occur as quickly as a few weeks apart, or you may not have another for years.

It’s also possible to develop genital herpes from HSV-1. It can be transmitted from the mouth to the genitals during oral sex. It can also be transmitted if you touch your mouth sores and then your genitals.

An HSV-1 infection can cause the same general symptoms as those of an HSV-2 infection.

Herpes can also be transmitted to your eyes. This can cause pain, tearing, and light sensitivity. You might also have blurry vision and redness around the eye.

Symptoms usually appear within 2 weeks of exposure.

The first outbreak is usually the worst. At first, you might develop some flu-like symptoms. Then you might feel itchy or have an uncomfortable feeling around your genitals or mouth before the lesions appear.

Future outbreaks are likely to be milder and resolve faster.

You may have heard that herpes is only contagious during an outbreak. However, it can be transmitted even though there are no visible signs. You can have herpes and not know it.

For those reasons, it’s important to try to talk with your sexual partners before assuming or blaming.

It can be a challenging situation to cope with. Learning you have herpes can stir a variety of emotions. It’s normal to have mixed feelings and wonder what to expect.

It’s important to make an appointment with your healthcare provider as quickly as possible. If you have herpes, your healthcare provider can provide important information about managing your condition.

Make a list of questions before you go, which can help you get the most out of your visit. Let your healthcare provider know if you’re having trouble understanding the information.

The more you know and understand about herpes, the better prepared you’ll be to manage your symptoms and condition. Your healthcare provider will help you create a treatment plan that works best for your medical needs.

You may not always be able to tell when you’re having a herpes outbreak. However, some common early warning signs that signal an impending attack, can include tingling, itching, and pain. This can happen 1 or 2 days before blisters start to show.

If you have HSV-2, you might have four or five outbreaks a year. How often outbreaks occur varies a lot from person to person. Outbreaks may also decrease over time.

People with HSV-1 tend to have fewer outbreaks.

In time, some people can pinpoint things that trigger an outbreak, such as:

  • illness
  • stress
  • fatigue
  • poor diet
  • friction in the genital area
  • steroidal treatment for other conditions

Oral herpes may be triggered by prolonged exposure to the sun.

Once you figure out some of your triggers, you can work to avoid them.

Your healthcare provider may offer a diagnosis based on the visual signs and symptoms alone. The diagnosis can also be confirmed with a blood test or a viral culture.

If you have any symptoms of herpes, see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. In the meantime, take proper precautions to avoid transmitting the infection to other locations on your own body or to others.

There’s no cure for herpes. However, it can be treated.

Home remedies

Here are some things you can do during an outbreak:

  • Avoid skin-to-skin contact or sharing personal items until lesions are fully healed.
  • Avoid touching the lesions, and wash your hands thoroughly.
  • Keep the entire area clean and dry. However, if you have genital lesions, don’t soak in the bathtub.
  • Wear loose, breathable underwear while you have genital lesions.
  • Get plenty of rest.

Medical treatment

Herpes can be treated with antiviral medications, which may help you have fewer, shorter, and less severe outbreaks.

I got a pimple on my labia majora

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9 0006 #3

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I had this for the first time 15 years, then of course there was no question of any kind of sexual life . .. Actually, there is no where to get herpes from.

so the author, if you are so afraid, go to the doctor better, otherwise they will heal you ..

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#19

passed through the day!

Is herpes really hard? I don’t know by myself, but I think it’s like a bubble . . 18:46

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#24

#25

tell me what and how to treat_)

#26 9000 5

Herpes are small blisters, it is not a single pimple or boil (which hurts), but a lot of small blisters (without pus)!!! Type Herpes in the search engine – look at the pictures and read in honey. reference book! And you just have a pimple or chiryak (furuncle)! I don’t know if it’s possible to apply Veshnevsky’s ointment to “these” places, but I heard somewhere that it helps!

#27

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    #32

    scared!

    so purulent all over, but a little red in the middle.

    well, it itched a little, and he was sick.

    but at night it exploded and the pus came out.

    everything is more or less over.

    when you touch it, it hurts a little, but only red is left and that’s it.

    but I’ll tell the doctor anyway)

    #33

    Prevention is better than cure!!!!!!!! (future doKhtar)

    #34

    what to do and what it could be! I don’t live sexually! Could it be from public restrooms? how to treat it! thank you in advance!

    #35

    this is most likely herpes

    the lymph nodes in the groin region should also become inflamed and hurt, and burning or tingling during urination.

    if there is such, then definitely herpes.

    see a doctor, he will prescribe treatment.

    antibiotics – acyclovir inside, cauterize pimples with propolis, smear pimples with ointment.

    good luck

    #36

    Looks like a pimple on any other part of the body, painful when pressed, but does not bother.

    I would like to know if anyone with a pimple on their genitals went to the doctor and what the doctor said.

    #37

    Lika

    Hello! Help me please! I have small pimples on my labia (small ones)! from a little, but they are waiting! ((

    what to do and what it could be! I don’t live sexually! Could it be from public restrooms? how to treat it! thank you in advance!

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    #38

    Guest

    I also got a pimple there.